From LADbible · · 1m 10s
JK Rowling explains Harry Potter family mystery
JK Rowling reveals why Harry Potter was left with the Dursleys 20 years after the books.
In brief
JK Rowling reveals why Harry Potter was left with the Dursleys 20 years after the books. JK Rowling explained Harry was left with the Dursleys because his grandparents died of dragon pox before he was born, making him an orphan in the wizarding world. Originally reported by LADbible.
Harry Potter's family mystery
Harry Potter fans have noticed a confusing detail about why he was left with the Dursleys instead of other relatives.
The Dursleys' explanation
JK Rowling explained that Harry's grandparents died of dragon pox before he was born, leaving him an orphan.
Why the grandparents died
James Potter's parents were very old when they had him and died of dragon pox within days of each other.
Harry's magical status
Rowling made sure Harry had no family to be sent to besides the Dursleys to create a 'you're a wizard' moment.
The quote
Rowling said, 'there's nothing serious or sinister about those deaths. I just needed them out of the way so I killed them.'
“there's nothing serious or sinister about those deaths. i just needed them out of the way so i killed them”
Why it matters
This explanation helps fans understand why Harry was left with the Dursleys and not other relatives.
The bottom line
JK Rowling explained Harry was left with the Dursleys because his grandparents died of dragon pox before he was born, making him an orphan in the wizarding world.
